Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***.

Sentencing begins today for Stewart Parnell, the first food executive to be charged with a federal crime for a Salmonella outbreak. He was convicted on September 19, 2014 for knowingly distributing salmonella-tainted peanut butter responsible for a 2008 Salmonella outbreak that killed nine people and sickened 714 others across 46 states.

The Peanut Corporation of America, for which Parnell served as executive at the time of the outbreak, was found by investigators to have cut numerous corners in product safety in order to increase profits. Documents and testimony showing that Parnell covered up positive Salmonella test results were introduced at trial. Workers at the company’s Georgia plant described filthy conditions, including bird droppings, mold, rats, and a leaky roof. The tainted peanut butter had been shipped to other companies like Kellogg’s, which then used it in making other food products in addition to being sold directly to consumers.

Stewart Parnell’s brother, Michael Parnell, and plant manager Mary Wilkerson were also convicted in their roles in the fraud and cover-up, but face shorter sentences. The maximum possible sentence Stewart Parnell faces is 9,636 months, which is 803 years.

The sentencing phase will permit testimony from victims of the outbreak and the relatives of those who died. Some, like Randy Napier, whose mother was one of the victims who died, intend to ask for as strong a sentence as possible. Relatives of the Parnells and Wilkerson will also testify to ask for leniency.

Prior to the Parnell case, companies and executives found guilty in food poisoning cases had only been charged with misdemeanors and were either fined or given prison sentences under a year if convicted. Even if Parnell is not given a life sentence by the judge, the outcome will likely be the first of its kind.

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Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for information purposes only and is not to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventive, or cure for any disease, disorder, or abnormal physical state, nor should it be considered a substitute for medical care from your doctor. On any matter relating to your health or well-being—and prior to undertaking any health-related activity—consult an appropriate health professional. The opinions herein are exactly that, they are the opinions of the author. Doctors Health Press and its employees are not responsible for medically unsupervised activities that could be harmful to your health. Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. All of the Doctors Health Press publications come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your newsletter, you can simply cancel your subscription and receive a pro-rated refund on all undelivered issues. For our books and special reports, we will give you a full refund of your purchase price within 30 days of your order. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.